Punjab Nahi Jaungi Movie Review

Punjab Nahi Jaungi Movie Review: “Punjab Nahi Jaungi” (translated as “I Won’t Go to Punjab”) is a 2017 Pakistani romantic comedy directed by Nadeem Baig and scripted by Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar. Starring Humayun Saeed and Mehwish Hayat, with Sohail Ahmed, Saba Hameed, and Urwa Hocane in significant roles, the film delves into a love triangle among the main characters while showcasing the vibrant Punjabi culture of Pakistan.

The movie hit screens on Eid, September 1, under the production banners of Humayun Saeed and Shahzad Nasib’s Six Sigma Plus, distributed by Salman Iqbal and Jerjees Seja’s ARY Films. It enjoyed immense success, grossing over Rs. 1.6 crore worldwide, securing its position as the highest-grossing Pakistani film until it was surpassed by “Jawani Phir Nahi Ani 2.” Additionally, a spin-off titled “London Nahi Jaunga” was released in 2022, eliciting mixed reviews.

Story

The story unfolds with Fawad Khagga’s return to Faisalabad from Lahore after completing his M.A. He dreams of a love marriage with a beautiful girl, while his cousin Durdana Butt harbors unrequited love for him. Fawad’s mother, Firdous Khagga, favors Amal Dastoor, an old friend who has just returned from London. Despite a long-standing friendship between Fawad and Amal, she declines his proposal as she intends to marry her college friend Vasay, with whom she studied abroad.

Heartbroken by Amal’s rejection, Fawad heads to Karachi, attempting to woo her by offering his only possessions—buffaloes and a dairy. However, Amal desires Vasay’s London apartment, leading to a reluctant agreement to marry Fawad. On their wedding day, Fawad’s drunken boast causes Amal distress, but he pleads for forgiveness, even attempting a dangerous rooftop dive.

Post-recovery, Fawad brings Amal to his dairy, but her dissatisfaction prompts her to renovate it, consuming her time and attention. Feeling neglected, Fawad turns to Durdana for solace, further straining his relationship with Amal. Misunderstandings escalate when Fawad, in a fit of anger, slaps Amal, prompting her departure to Karachi.

Filled with remorse, Fawad seeks reconciliation but faces rejection from Amal and a looming divorce threat. Desperate to salvage their marriage, he agrees to divorce only if Amal returns to Punjab. Ultimately, Amal relents, and they reconcile, realizing the depth of their love.

The film concludes with Fawad and Amal embracing, symbolizing their renewed commitment and the triumph of love over misunderstandings and conflicts.

 Main Casts

Production

The film emerged from a collaboration between ARY Films and Humayun Saeed’s Six Sigma Plus production house. It boasts a stellar cast of renowned Pakistani television actors, including Urwa Hocane, Ahmed Ali Butt, Saba Hameed, Sohail Ahmed, Azfar Rehman, Naveed Shehzad, Behroze Sabzwari, Safeena Sheikh, Samina Peerzada, and Waseem Abbass.

Initially, Iman Ali was considered for the female lead, but Mehwish Hayat eventually took on the role. Saeed clarified that while discussions with Iman Ali had occurred, she was never formally cast, and they mutually agreed she wouldn’t be part of the project. Regarding the character of Durdana, Sohai Ali Abro was approached but declined the role. Saeed explained that Sohai may have expected a more substantial role, which Durdana’s character didn’t offer.

Release